Insider believes Leon Draisaitl is heading to Boston in a blockbuster deal:

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Ryan Hall
November 12, 2023 (9:43)

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It's safe to say that no one in the Oilers organization, the fan base of Oil Country, and most pundits in the NHL expected the start that the Oilers have produced. It seems unimaginable with the likes of Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Matthias Ekholm among the team that this start has happened.

Well, it has, and it's put the Oilers' management and coaching staff into a tailspin. Everyone's looking for answers; the self-doubt and the mistake-riddled lineup continue to worsen with each passing game.

However, there is news coming from Boston that one of their insiders feels that a deal could be coming between the Bruins and the Oilers. It appears the Bruins are looking at Oilers superstar center Leon Draisaitl as a potential centrepiece in a blockbuster deal that would send several pieces, including Linus Ullmark, to the Oilers.

Now, many would read this and think it's crazy talk, but let's examine the idea as several factors could come into play.

Firstly, Draisaitl is entering eligibility to seek a contract extension from the Oilers. It's widely expected that he will look over his options, especially if the team continues to be dismal, with no possibility of improvement, especially in the goaltender position.

He will not be able to negotiate a new deal until after this season is done, and with the retirement of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci in Boston, it would certainly be enticing for the Draisaitl and the Bruins to look at this.

A player of Draisaitl's calibre would give them a bona fide #1 center, which would put Pavel Zacha in the second-line role and improve their depth down the middle

Another factor would be if the Oilers can afford two centers at this price level with Connor McDavid's contract coming up in a few seasons. If Draisaitl does not show any interest in resigning, the Oilers may need to move him sooner rather than later and avoid the disaster in Calgary with Johnny Gaudreau.

And lastly, the package the Oilers would receive for Draisaitl could put the team in a great position for years to come. The proposed trade would be Draisaitl and Foegele for Ullmark, Debrusk, Poitras, Lysell, and a 2026 1st rounder.

The 30-year-old goaltender who won the Vezina Trophy last season has had an exceptional start this season with a 5-0-0 record, a 2.26 goals-against average, and a .926 save percentage. He would give the Oilers a number 1 starter they desperately need and add depth to their prospect pool and current roster.

Everyone loves a good trade rumour, and it remains to be seen if this even materializes.

As seen on Hockey Patrol- Major Turnaround Oilers Looking to Trade Superstar Leon Draisaitl? Insider Believes An Eastern Conference Team Is Making a Push for Him